Consumer Union, the non-profit that publishes Consumer Reports is pulling out of Texas lobbying efforts. For over twenty-five years the Austin Office has championed the consumer, but is redeploying the Austin staff to cover a select few issues nationwide.[Dallas News, sub. requ'd] Part of the reason for the pullout?

The group’s leaders say they want to have a larger, national impact. They also say that they have lost far too many battles against well-armed business lobbyists, who appear to have gained an unprecedented level of influence in Austin.

Nice to know that our State Legislators are tongue kissing with lobbyists while the poor constituents are left to suck on a pickle.
Good luck to Consumers Union. Help them out on their Internet campaign by visiting their site.